Speculation abounds after sudden closure of Pearl's Megu, Tse Yang

Doha’s gossip mill is in full swing following the sudden weekend closures of high-end restaurants Megu Doha and Tse Yang at the Pearl-Qatar.

Notices posted outside both restaurants informed customers that they would be closed “until further notice.”

A Megu employee told Doha News that the restaurant was shut on Saturday without explanation, and that management is awaiting further information from the United Development Company, the group developing the Pearl.

A UDC spokeswoman said she could not confirm or comment on the closures.

Both restaurants are operated by the Hospitality Development Company (HDC), a subsidiary of UDC.

The company made headlines last month when its president suddenly resigned amid questions about the Pearl’s financial outlook and controversy over an inexplicable alcohol ban that has caused several restaurants to report significant drops in revenue.

Rumors abounds as to why Megu, a New York-based Japanese restaurant that opened in Doha last April, and Tse Yang, a high-end Chinese restaurant that opened in 2010, have been closed.

Because both used to serve alcohol, some have speculated that it decided to close until the ban was lifted due to a loss in revenues. Another unsubstantiated rumor is that the two eateries were punished for serving alcohol illegally.

What’s the story there? Loss of liquor license, bankrupt? RT @Muneerax: @moha_doha It was confirmed by @Monster_Althani he checked it out.

— Mohana Rajakumar (@moha_doha) February 5, 2012

Whatever the reason, customers of the restaurants have reacted to news of the closures with dismay.

Omg nuuuu :c RT @Muneerax: Is it true that Megu and Tse Yang closed down? #Doha, #Qatar, #ThePearl @dohanews

— Amna A.♡ (@AmnaCrawford) February 5, 2012